Discussion Questions
Chapter 16: The Good Counselor
1. Give examples of people you have known that display the same qualities of a “ good counselor.”
What stands out to you in terms of how they fit with those qualities listed in the chapter? What
have you seen them do?
2. What aspects of your personality contribute to your ability to be a good counselor? What
aspects of your personality might impede your ability to be a good counselor?
3. Super sensitivity or empathy seems to be an inborn trait rather than something learned. How
important do you believe it is for a counselor to possess super sensitivity or empathy? Do you
believe a counselor can be effective without this trait?
4. Discuss the reasons why it is important for a good counselor to have good professional
boundaries. How do a counselor’s professional boundaries contribute to the well-being of a
client? How can you tell if you have healthy boundaries?
5. Review the code of ethics listed in the chapter. Which of the perspectives do you most agree
with? What do you need to do in your personal life to make certain that you are able to meet
and maintain the code of ethics? What would you do if you found yourself breaking one of the
codes? What would you do if you found another person in violation of the code of ethics?
6. You work at a treatment center in a small rural town. You’ve lives here your entire life and it
seems everyone knows everyone else. It wouldn‘t be uncommon to see former clients at school
functions, recovery meetings, or church activities. Discuss how this context may create
complications for boundaries and confidentiality? How would a good counselor navigate these
issues?
7. The NADAAC code of ethics state you should terminate services when it is reasonably clear a
client is not benefiting from treatment. What would make this “Reasonably Clear?” What might
a discharge plan look like?